Application Deadline is November 10
(JOHNSON CITY, Texas) October 1, 2025 — Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC) is accepting applications for high school students interested in representing PEC at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s 2026 Youth Tour. PEC will select high school students to attend the all-expenses-paid, week-long event in Washington, D.C., June 14-21, 2026. Our students will join 1,500 other students from electric cooperatives across the country to visit historical sites, meet their state representatives, and make important connections.
“Youth Tour brings to life former President LBJ’s vision to inspire the next generation of leaders,” said PEC Community Outreach Specialist Mikayla Herron. “The program makes a lasting impression, motivating young adults to get involved in their community, local government, and public service. We’re grateful to provide this opportunity to students across the Texas Hill Country.”
Following last year’s trip, Youth Tour participants and PEC staff visited local County Commissioners Court meetings to share their experiences with the program. Sophia Vitela of Wimberley High School told Hays County Commissioners, “This trip meant so much to me, and I’m so glad I had the opportunity to be part of it. I didn’t imagine the extent of the memories I would make or how much I would learn.”
“It was such a fun and educational experience, meeting people from other states, doing congressional visits, and seeing the house floor where all the big decisions are made,” said Gabriela Correa of Hays High School. “It was truly the trip of a lifetime, and I couldn’t be more grateful that I got to experience it.”
Students selected to represent PEC at Youth Tour will:
- Visit Arlington National Cemetery, Capitol Hill, the Lincoln Memorial, Mount Vernon, the Smithsonian Institution, the U.S. Supreme Court, the Washington National Cathedral, and other historic landmarks.
- Meet local political representatives and learn about local and national government.
- Create friendships with students from all around the country.
To be considered, students must:
- Be classified as a high school sophomore, junior, or senior for the 2025-26 school year.
- Have a parent or legal guardian who is a PEC member in good standing.
The deadline to apply is November 10, 2025.
PEC cares for its members and communities by investing in youth education programs while providing safe, reliable, and affordable power. Students can learn more about the Youth Tour program and apply online at mypec.com/youth-tour. For questions or more information, please email [email protected].
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